Leadership Overview
Excelsior University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, communications, academic leadership, and institutional governance.
Committed to providing flexible online degree programs for working adults, Excelsior University empowers students through accessible education that balances professional, family, and military commitments while fostering career advancement.
Committed to providing flexible online degree programs for working adults, Excelsior University empowers students through accessible education that balances professional, family, and military commitments while fostering career advancement.
Leadership Roles at Excelsior University
Nipur Shah - Chief Executive Officer
Nipur Shah, the Chief Executive Officer at Excelsior University, directs the overarching strategic vision for the institution. By prioritizing the needs of working adults, the Chief Executive Officer architects academic frameworks that integrate seamlessly with professional and military life. Nipur Shah oversees the expansion of online degree programs across more than 30 disciplines, ensuring that the university maintains high-quality, accredited standards. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to align institutional growth with the evolving demands of the global workforce. By optimizing resource allocation and fostering innovation in distance learning, the Chief Executive Officer drives the university toward long-term sustainability. Through a focus on student-centric outcomes, Shah secures the institution's position as a leader in higher education. This executive leadership ensures that every academic initiative supports the mission of providing accessible, flexible, and career-enhancing educational opportunities for diverse student populations.
John Pontius - Chief Financial Officer
John Pontius, the Chief Financial Officer at Excelsior University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic stability of the institution. Overseeing the budgeting process, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources support the delivery of affordable, high-quality online degree programs. John Pontius directs the financial planning required to sustain operations across more than 30 academic disciplines, balancing the need for institutional growth with the commitment to student affordability. This role involves rigorous analysis of market trends to inform investment in educational technology and student support services. By maintaining transparent financial reporting and efficient operational workflows, the Chief Financial Officer protects the university's assets. Pontius collaborates with other executive leaders to prioritize funding for initiatives that directly impact student success and career advancement. Through disciplined fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer enables the university to continue providing flexible learning options for working adults and military personnel.
Ruth Turman - President
Ruth Turman, the President at Excelsior University, leads the academic mission and institutional culture. Focusing on the internal academic environment, the President ensures that the curriculum remains relevant to the needs of working adults and military professionals. Ruth Turman directs the faculty and administrative teams responsible for delivering high-quality, flexible online degree programs. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation in teaching methodologies across all 30 disciplines. By overseeing academic policy and student support initiatives, the President guarantees that the university meets the highest standards of accreditation. Turman collaborates with the executive team to align academic goals with the broader institutional strategy of career-focused education. Through a commitment to student success, the President drives the development of resources that help learners navigate the path to graduation. This leadership ensures that the university remains a premier destination for those seeking to enhance skills and achieve professional advancement.
David Schejbal - President
David Schejbal, the President at Excelsior University, governs the external partnerships and institutional growth initiatives. Focusing on the expansion of the university's reach, the President architects alliances with corporate and military organizations to provide tailored educational pathways. David Schejbal directs the implementation of strategic programs that facilitate credit transfers and degree completion for students with prior learning experience. This leadership role involves representing the university in national higher education forums to advocate for flexible, competency-based learning models. By identifying emerging market opportunities, the President drives the development of new academic disciplines that address current industry demands. Schejbal works with the executive team to ensure that the university's operational scale supports the needs of a diverse, geographically dispersed student body. Through visionary leadership, the President secures the institution's role as a pioneer in adult education, ensuring that every student receives the support necessary to achieve career goals and professional milestones.
Erin Coufal - Chief Communications Officer
Erin Coufal, the Chief Communications Officer at Excelsior University, shapes the public narrative and institutional brand identity. Overseeing all internal and external messaging, the Chief Communications Officer ensures that the value proposition of flexible, accredited online education reaches working adults and military service members effectively. Erin Coufal directs the development of communication strategies that highlight the university's commitment to balancing professional and academic life. This leadership role involves managing media relations, digital outreach, and stakeholder engagement to bolster the institution's reputation in the competitive education sector. By crafting clear, impactful messaging, the Chief Communications Officer drives awareness of the diverse degree programs available to prospective students. Coufal works closely with academic leadership to translate complex educational offerings into accessible information for the public. Through strategic brand management, the Chief Communications Officer strengthens the connection between the university and the thousands of students seeking career advancement and personal growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Excelsior University Top Executives and Leadership Team
